"What have you learned so far or is there a point you realize that you grow?"
This question came from a friend I made while volunteering at a lovely homestay called La Beauté in Sa Pa. After I left Sa Pa and we caught up via IG, she asked me this question to reflect on what I have learned.
My reply turned into a valuable piece of diary to look at:
Hi Anna, that's a great question. Traveling has opened up so many opportunities for me to meet new people and experience cultures that challenge my prejudices. I've realized there are many different ways to live, which has allowed me to step back from my fast-paced life and consider what lifestyle is truly right for me. It's also made me more aware of the challenges that many people face, from economic issues to education, varying greatly across different regions. These topics have captured my interest.
Additionally, traveling with a companion has taught me how to maintain harmony and negotiate within relationships—skills that are much more challenging than when I'm on a solo journey. Also, I've welcomed new insights about life and gained a deeper understanding of myself. I've discovered hidden strengths and weaknesses, unearthed passions, and explored secretly-held projects. This journey has been incredibly fulfilling. Feeling empowered to live life my way has made me more vibrant and passionate.
After the chat, I felt more enthusiastic about learning. Instead of finding knowledge from institutions, I take lessons from nature and casual moments.
How do I learn from different segments of traveling?
Self-reflection by journaling, meditating, and sharing with beloved people helps consolidate ideas and insights I encounter along the way. My partner and I once witnessed a strange unsettling local ritual that initially filled me with fear. However, after calming my mind and reading an article about it, I understood how poverty and fear had driven these people to superstition. What I have learned here wasn't just about a different culture but how I learned about it out of curiosity with empathy to see another aspect of life. Poverty can be a desperate struggle that haunts many.
However, gaining new insights has just surfaced impacts on knowledge if we do not look to our inner-self. I use newfound knowledge to shed light on self-awareness and understanding.
Reflecting on my journey thus far, I've come to realize that traveling isn't just about visiting new places; it's about embracing the opportunities for growth and learning that come with each adventure. From meeting new people to experiencing different cultures, every moment on the road has the potential to teach us something new about ourselves and the world around us.
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